DAVAO CITY – Out-going President Rodrigo Duterte and incoming Vice President Sara Duterte reminded the Davao City Mayor Sebastian ‘Baste’ Duterte to prioritize the general welfare of the people of the city.
President Duterte and Vice President Sara both attended the Oath-taking and Inauguration of the newly elected local government officials of Davao City on Monday afternoon at the Sanggunian Panglungsod (SP) Session Hall.
The president, as guest speaker of the event, narrated his experiences and insights as a government employee and official for more than 20 years both in the local and national office.
President Rodrigo reminded all elected officials to do their job well and refuse those who will attempt to pay them in exchange for a favor or personal interest. He said the progress of the city now lies in the new administration.
"I am delighted to be here with you today. Congratulations to each of you for winning the 2022 Local Elections. Thank you for taking the only chance to serve our kababayans (fellowmen) with confidence, honesty, and integrity," the President told the elected officials of the city.
Vice President Sara, in an interview, once again congratulated her brother, Mayor Baste, on his milestone in his political career. She also congratulated all the newly-elected officials of Davao City.
"For Mayor Baste, always remember that you are not there to please anyone and that it is important to serve the general welfare of the residents of Davao City," the incoming Vice President said.
Mayor Baste thanked President Duterte, First Congressional District Representative Paolo Duterte, and Vice President Sara who, he said, were his inspiration in running for a government office. He also thanked their mother for all the support and love she showed for their family.
The incoming mayor took his oath before Associate Justice Loida Posadas-Kahulugan of the Court of Appeals at around 2:55 p.m. His father President Duterte, mother Elizabeth Zimmerman, and sister Vice President Sara joined him on stage.